Northeast Philly priest resigns amid sexual abuse allegations

Rev. John P. Paul, pastor of Our Lady of Calvary Parish since 2000, resigned and moved out of the parish's rectory, according to a memo on its website.

Father Paul has not been charged with a crime.

Rev. John P. Paul, pastor of Our Lady of Calvary Parish since 2000, resigned and moved out of the parish's rectory, according to a memo posted on its website.

Father Paul, who was recently accused of sexually abusing minors 45 years ago, said he voluntarily resigned "so that the best interest of the parish could be served," according to the memo.

The allegations, which were made earlier this year, were investigated by authorities, but Paul was not charged.

The Archdiocese said Paul's decision to resign came "amid the stress and anxiety relative to an investigation into alleged misconduct on his part."

"Earlier this year, the Archdiocese received allegations that Father Paul had sexually abused minors over 40 years ago during his time as a seminarian. Father Paul has denied these allegations," according to a statement.

An independent investigation by the Archdiocese has not yet concluded.

Rev. John Babowitch was named as Paul's replacement. His term begins on Dec. 2.